Did You Know There are 3 Kinds of Quantum?
September 24, 2024
- Author: CTA Staff
While it’s still early days for quantum technology, what once seemed like science fiction is now on the brink of transforming industries and everyday life. But did you know there are three distinct kinds of quantum technology? Let’s dive into this exciting field and understand what makes it so revolutionary.
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Understanding the Basics
Quantum technology uses properties of quantum mechanics to enable new and improved networking, computing and sensing. These properties can be difficult to work with and may require production at very low temperatures in a process known as cryogenics, special shielding and error correction. But the projected benefits are significant, and many companies (including CES exhibitors) are working in this space.
Quick Facts:
The basic unit of quantum information is the qubit. Researchers are working with several different core types of qubits – all are under development and have different projected advantages for different kinds of problems.
- Trapped Ions
- Cold Atoms
- Superconducting Qubits
- Photonic Qubits
- Solid-State Qubits
- Topological Qubits
The Three Types of Quantum
Now on to the three major emerging market sectors, each of which harness different quantum properties to address specific challenges and open new possibilities.
1. Quantum Computing
Quantum Computing stores information using qubits rather than the bits of current “classical” computing. Where a traditional computing “bit” is either one or zero, and never both, a qubit can hold multiple states simultaneously. The power of these structures allows quantum computers to do more with a few dozen qubits than the most powerful classical computers — for the right kinds of problems.
Quick Facts:
Hybrids of quantum and high-performance computing, and of quantum and AI/ML, will be important in finance, chemistry, materials, logistics and more. Early commercial solutions are emerging from R&D and extremely powerful solutions are expected in the early 2030’s.
2. Quantum Communications
Quantum communications harness the principles of quantum mechanics to secure information in ways that classical systems cannot. One of the most promising applications is quantum key distribution (QKD), which allows for the secure distribution of encryption keys. Unlike traditional methods, QKD sends information using quantum states with properties like entanglement or superposition. It’s physically impossible to eavesdrop on such data without disturbing these properties, so QKD ensures that any attempt to intercept the key will be detected, making the communication channel inherently secure from eavesdroppers covertly capture private keys.
This method of securing information has the potential to revolutionize how we protect sensitive data, from financial transactions to national security. As quantum communication technology matures, we can expect it to become a crucial component of cybersecurity infrastructure.
3. Quantum Sensing
Quantum sensors are already making waves in the commercial sector. These devices exploit quantum phenomena to achieve levels of sensitivity and precision far beyond that of classical sensors. By measuring quantities with unprecedented accuracy, quantum sensors are transforming fields such as medical imaging, navigation, and environmental monitoring.
The quantum sensor market is not just a theoretical concept; it is already a significant commercial sector, with global revenue estimates reaching $1 billion USD in 2022 and increasing at a rapid pace. This growth reflects the practical value and increasing adoption of quantum sensing technologies in various industries.
Quantum is Changing the Landscape of Data Security
Your IT department knows that the encryption used for internet and website security is at risk from quantum computing. When powerful quantum computers arrive in the early 2030’s, public-key encryption will no longer protect data. This impacts everything from the technology behind “https://” on corporate websites to government secrets. Worse, data collected by eavesdroppers today can be decrypted when those systems arrive. IT departments around the world are inventorying their use of encryption technologies and talking to vendors about upgrading to newer “post-quantum computing” (PQC) technologies.
Quick Facts:
What’s Next?
Quantum technology is more than just a buzzword; it's a transformative force that promises to reshape industries and enhance our capabilities in ways we are just beginning to understand. The quantum future is not far off – CES 2025 will give you a glimpse into what the future holds.
